Great spot. Super convenient on public transit by both buses and trains. The place seems to be divided into two. One area for the food and another for the books. Great drink selection, I went there on a cold rainy day and the warm latte really hit the spot. As for the seating, there are a few tables set up in the cafe area, if you choose to read and eat and also a few in the store itself if you only wish to read. There was a good selection of outlets too so this is 100% a spot you can come work at. As for the books themselves, there is an excellent selection. You can choose from children's books to bestsellers. They also have puzzles and little toys to choose from. I really like that they have some pencils already laid out for writing. They also have 3 book clubs that meet usually on the second Thursday of the month. You can just drop by whenever you want! The three are: Book of the Month, Sci-fi/Fantasy book of the Month and Feminist book of the Month. I would suggest reading these books even if you can't make the event. (They have very good choices each month) My highlight however was that this place has $3 blind books and the money all goes to a charity. However you can only buy these with cash.

One of the best independent bookstores in Chicago. It's not there to be a replacement for a Barnes and nobles, Amazon, or large used book store but it quickly has established itself as apart of the Chicago community. They provide the best sellers as well as specialize in a carefully curated books for political discussion both pertaining to the local market and the national scene. Setting it apart is regular events with authors, game nights, and other activities. There is a Cafe that enhances the experience, but the real reason to go there is to find an interesting book Amazon would/could never recommended to you via their staff or just browsing the shelves /tables. Is that worth the extra cost of not buying from Amazon? Generally Yes. If you read a lot it may be worth buying paper packs from volumes and hardcovers from online to save Money. That makes the most sense. But generally speaking I'm willing to pay a premium to keep this place going.

This is a pleasant place to hang out, and on the whole it's charming, but each of its constituent parts are kind-of silly. As a bookstore, it's thoughtfully curated but lacks the shelf space to have much selection. Good for buying something on a whim, but they probably don't have that one book you want unless everyone's reading it. The cafe is solid, but it's next to Wormhole so there is literally no reason to buy drinks here unless you prefer the atmosphere or you want to sip while perusing the books (or if there's a big line at Wormhole, I guess). The staff is consistently very friendly, but sometimes you end up with a less-than-speedy bookseller as your barista which feels a little sad for everyone involved.

I came here for an event, but was instantly impressed by the books on display. It's one of those bookstores who have your every interest available to explore, tempting you to pick up a music legend's memoir, the latest political controversy, new novels and more. A coffee bar brews up excellent coffee, espresso and tea, with a case of pastries to add. Small tables in front have people working on laptops, and in addition to the wifi, a printer is available to customers, letting you know working is welcome here. Keep an eye on their events, as well, which draws an enlightened crowd of all ages and styles.

I have been to this coffee shop a few times on my way back to the suburbs from the City of Chicago and try to stop in when they host speaking engagements. The coffee is generally not my favorite because it has a slight burnt taste to it, but they do have an option to spike your cup of joe with alcohol, which is a plus. I think that they should also provide more dessert options because I had a little sweet tooth on both occasions I attended the poetry events. I really enjoy the poetry readings which add a touch of humor to the night. Overall, I would go back to this establishment.

This is a great bookstore to find obscure titles and new authors. I’ve picked up a few books that I had previously seen online, but never expected to find in a brick in mortar shop (Essays and Fictions by Brad Phillips). Be specific about your interests if you’re asking for a book recommendation. I don’t know if the worker was messing with me, but I don’t think I’ve read such a bore of a book (Someone Else’s Toothbrush) besides my own personal journal. That’s my own fault for not being more specific. I would highly recommend this shop to anyone.

I like having a bookstore nearby. I do whatever I can to avoid ordering books from Amazon, etc. Volumes has an incredibly small selection for someone who doesn't read much fiction. It's a cute spot, but they never have the book I'm looking for and it's rare that I find something new that I'm interested in. You can usually order whatever book you're looking for and pick it up from the shop in a few days. It's a good feature, but not the ideal book buying experience. I hope they grow their selection and find room for a few more shelves.

Such a cute neighborhood spot for books. I love bringing my nanny kid for their story time. They are very accommodating and let me roll the stroller inside. There is also a cafe in store; I always get an iced oatmilk latte (always frothy and perfectly balanced) and a seasonal pastry; this fall it's an apple galette and it is absolutely to die for warmed up. There is also an adorable assortment of gifts for adults and children. I also always see people working around the bookstore and it seems like a cozy place to do that.

Charming local bookstore that carries everything from bestsellers to unexpected books that will take your breath away. Rebecca and her whole team are so knowledgeable about basically every genre and always help you find the book you didn't know you needed. The cafe and events they have are a comfortable place that make you feel connected with community and it's one of the places I miss the most during this lockdown. Even now, I'll call in for a book reco and swing by for curbside pickup.

A good selection of reading material for sale combined with a good selection of coffee and tea based drinks. The vibe is very bright, white walls combined with good lighting. Makes for a good environment for reading, either for recreation or study. Both washrooms are gender neutral, which is honestly convenient for everyone but especially our trans community. Wednesdays they have an open mic night, which is nice but know that it makes certain selections inaccessible.

Great local shop in Wicker Park. Staff is much more friendly and helpful than other options along the strip. The cafe up front is a great place to get work done and there are plenty of spots throughout to post up and skim through some potential purchases. You can even sell your own books back for store credit (reference materials excluded). The selection is definitely limited, but it's quaintness works, especially if you're just generally browsing.

I definitely enjoy mom and pop book shops. This place has a decent number of books, but they're mostly on the outer walls of the shop. The setup of this place looks like the owners envisioned it to be more of a cafe or meeting spot with the books on the wall to give the shop more of an aesthetically library feel. The staff are kind and courteous which is always a plus. I just wished they focused more on the variety of their book collection.

Lovely neighborhood book shop, cafe/bar, and gathering space. They have a small selection, but it is very well curated. I usually pick something up in graphic novels, current non-fiction, and various fiction. There's a strong selection of kids books and a cute activity area for kids and families in the back. The cafe has what you need, and beer, too. They have a number of recurring events and a book club. Great addition to the neighborhood.

Ordered a book on line on 1-12-23. Got a confirmation email. Never got an email about shipping. Waited two weeks and got another email that simply said order in process. Then nothing. Called and spoke to a young lady that said she would refer it to her manager. Never heard a thing from anyone. Since I bought it via Pay Pal I referred it to Pay Pal and got a refund. In short, lousy Internet service and I'll never shop with them again.

Love this Bookcafe. It's got plenty of table space for you millennials to work at. And coffee and drinks at a reasonable price. I love love loved The Ginny, which was a Matcha Peppermint Latte that was $4. Never thought of matching up peppermint with matcha but it worked soooo well. It inspired me to buy my own peppermint tea bags to try to make it at home. They also have alcoholic lattes which I thought was unique.

Volumes is a lovely, cozy bookstore with an impeccable selection of books. I always find a new treasure when I stop by, and being able to grab a coffee to sip on while I browse is just delightful! The selection here isn't massive, but there's a little bit of everything, and the staff are friendly and knowledgeable. If you're in the market for books, close the Amazon app and stop into Volumes. You won't regret it!

Delightful neighborhood bookstore offering much more than just books. Coffee, pastries, and even wine and beer. Wonderful selection of books with great diversity, in every way that you can interpret that. Free WiFi and location along busy and trendy Milwaukee Ave in Wicker Park make this a nice spot to get lost in for a while. Don't price compare to online booksellers or you'll find yourself disappointed.

Really cool space with something for everyone. Went there for a book talk, my daughter got restless and they have a great space for kids to read in the back. Saw multiple authors that I love, with new books I hadn't seen yet. Also looked like a nice selection of coffee, tea, beer, and wine (didn't sample any) with space to sit and work or chat. Locally-owned, woman-owned, will definitely be back!

Volumes is a cozy place for any and all book lovers! They have small selection of books, but carry something for everyone. They have sections for sci- fi, young adults, fiction, history, and more. There is plenty of seating available throughout the store. However, it is located in a very popular part of town and it can be difficult to find a place to sit if you're in a group of more than 2.

This is a great eclectic bookcafé that attracts a very diverse crowd especially for the open mics that happen every Wednesday night and the fourth Wednesday of every month has an open mic called “you joke like a girl” for Women comics only but men can certainly watch! They have coffee and some wine and other snacky items but it doesn’t have a full lunch menu or anything like that.

A warm environment unlike anything else I've seen in Chicago. Rebecca and her staff did a great job building something truly unique. Really appreciate the events and atmosphere, a true "third place" to go to work or simply read, and the events are often pleasant surprises. When the pandemic first struck, this was the first place I worried might be lost forever. Cheers to Volumes!

Cute local bookstore. The staff are very friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. I've visited a few times and have generally been able to find what I want. I think it also helps that I share similar book preferences with a few staff so I'm able to find a suitable alternative if they don't carry a specific item. Their online ordering system is fairly easy to navigate as well.

What a gem in the rough! My daughter and I happened upon this store and it is amazing! The staff were knowledgeable, helpful and friendly! If there is something you want that you don't see, they will get it ordered asap! There are new and used books, plenty of places to sit and of course snacks and drinks (coffee, juice and even alcohol!). I wish this was in my hometown!

This is a book-loving-coffee-drinking-girl's heaven. When I was applying for grad school it was a great place to work on essays and get a latte (great coffee btw), and then after a few hours meet up with a friend, buy a beer (YES they have alcohol too) and peruse the books to unwind. Great location, easy to get to via public transit, and the best vibe. 15/10

Chains are taking over Wicker Park, but Volumes truly stands out and should be supported as an independent, woman-owned shop. An incredibly cozy bookstore and cafe. Also serves beer/wine/cider. Volumes is champion for women, LGBTQ+, people of color, comedians, poets, youth, etc. Exactly what we need more of in the world! Support this shop!

Hmmm. I never reviewed this place, so that's an oversight on my part I'm rectifying right now. Great coffee, and they have a solid selection of books and literary events you need to check out. Plus, they allowed me to drop off flyers for the SF convention I work for so it's not like they're unwilling to let groups advertise their, either.

The reason I am giving a 4 star rating is because they could make the setting more comfy by investing in some comfy chairs. The used books are selled at a discount and the return policy is 30 days. They have a delicious infused leaves tea, the coffee is also delicious. All this being said, this is my first visit in a bookshop cafe in U.S.

A lovely local bookshop! As a visitor to the area, Volumes was recomended to me by a family member. The staff were friendly and welcoming. There is a great selection of books to choose from. Volumes has a relaxing atmosphere and a lovely cafe where you can enjoy a drink and lose yourself in a book. Would definitely recommend a visit.

Such a cozy place! Not a huge menu, but everything you need for an afternoon chatting with friends or studying. The bookstore has a great mix of titles and genres to browse. There are two separate seating areas between the cafe and bookstore, which adds a nice division of space. Spent a couple hours here and really enjoyed it!

I really like this little bookcafe. They have a very cute setup and some lovely menu offerings. I like to browse the books which are all very neatly displayed and it’s a nice spot to read, write, or just eat a muffin. They also offer a variety of social gatherings like book clubs and trivia nights which I’m keen to join.

Volumes Bookcafe is my go-to local bookstore. They have a great selection of titles and their drink offers are spectacular! I recommend to anyone looking for a nice drink to relax, or a fun literary event to attend. They're very active in the community, something I always look for in a good local business!

I adore bookcafes and this is one of the best I've ever been in. They have a good range of books with some great looking titles and good recommendations. They're also very open, inviting and comfortable. Also I walked in intending to buy nothing and came out with two books which is always a good sign.

I love love love this place! The staff is extremely warm and friendly, there are plenty of places to get work done (with or without a computer) and ample outlets available, and the coffee and baked goods are superb! All the portions are pretty sizeable too so you definitely get your money's worth. :)

Flames is a cool blend of a coffee shop as well as a local bookstore with a great atmosphere inside. Their coffee was good, strong, and fairly priced. And provided a quiet working environment with reliable internet. The one drawback is that there was less eating then I believe would be desirable.

Great place to spend an afternoon! Came here to wind down after travelling and was able to sit down for both coffee as well as attend a live book reading event. It definitely felt like a very comfortable place to relax and unwind, so would recommend to anyone looking for a place to chill.

Absolutely fantastic ice chai latte. The handwritten notes for book recommendations is great. Love that they serve beer and wine, only thing lacking is the poor selection in breakfast food or snacks to eat through the day. On another note, they do weekly trivia on Mondays which is great.

We paid a visit to Volumes to get chai lattes and pick up some children's books for Christmas presents. The children's section was very cute and cozy, and the book collection was moderate in size but well curated. Overall, a very pleasant place to spend a cold Chicago afternoon!

I love the vibe here. Came in on a weekday late morning and it was perfect to sit down with a coffee and a book to relax and read. Highly recommend! They also have a special reward program for every $100 spent you get $10 back valid for both the books and coffee purchases!

FThis is a charming independent book store with a wonderful collection of books - mainstream and eclectic. I came here for a reading and stayed for a coffee. The staff is wonderfully knowledgeable, with great ideas and suggestions. It's also easy to reach and accessible.

This is such a cool place! My friend grabbed a beer and I got some coffee and we spent a good hour and a half in here, looking at books and poking into a couple of them. We both found stuff we liked, and I got a book that was on clearance that I am so excited to read!

This is the cutest bookshop in Chicago. It also has a cafe inside where events are held. Check out Mondays when they have trivia nights. They offer blind date with a book where you can buy books they can't sell (from publishers) and the money is donated to a charity.

Dope bookstore, clean and organized with a nice balance of inventory and space to chill. I've been to a book reading here and got lost in the moment. I forgot all that was around me and that is exactly what a good book experience is for me. I'm going back for sure.

We're so lucky to have this place within walking distance from where we live! Great selection of books, kids books, events (for adults and kids), and great recommendations from staff. They'll even order books that you're interested in. Friendly owners and staff.

I went here for coffee and ended up discussing time travel. I'm ordering all my books through here just to support the place. None of that hipster awkwardness. Really nicely designed. Reminded me of a classy Tardis. Which probably explains the time travel talk.

A cozy bookstore with a little cafe! The cafe is pretty limited but there’s nice seating to work or read and a good selection of books. They have both new and used books and the used books are really a bargain! I would definitely recommend stopping in.

Lovely bookstore cafe with plenty of places to sit and work. The staff is friendly. While the book selection isn't huge, the store will order in whatever you're craving to read. Also, their drinks are great. I rec an Anne with oat milk (hot, not iced).

Volumes is a dope spot to go for open mic nights! And their coffee is really good. Although something to add is that they do not serve decaf coffee but they have decaf espresso. They have a wide variety of books and I love the gender neutral bathrooms!

gray service good selection of books and cafe beverages (including wine). I have been here for a number of good events. there's a storytelling event that's particularly good. there is also a space upstairs that is occasionally rented out for workshops

We really liked Volumes! The staff was friendly and they had some fun books to sift through. There aren’t a lot of titles- but they’ll order literally any book you want at no charge! The children’s area is super cute. The drinks were really good too.

One of the best bookstores in the city. Their coffee drinks are delicious, and they offer a small but potent collection of books across a wide range of genres. These are book people through and through. I LOVE Volumes and you will too!

It's more than a cafe/ bookstore. The vibe is hip, warm but modern, easy to access books at the forefront of literature, and great choices for casual eats and drinks. Storytelling and music warms the place up even more! I'll be back!

Fantastic local bookstore with delicious coffee shop. Excellent spot to work for long periods of time (fast wifi, lots of seating and outlets). Volumes is such a wonderful spot in Wicker Park. Always friendly service and cool events!

This place was so open and cheerful and welcoming. It's neat and clean and vibrant and i can easily get so much work done! The washrooms were clean and the snacks and drinks were pretty nice as well. The staff was extremely helpful!

Great bookstore space. Place to read and work. Wide ranging books from adult fiction, non fiction, young adult and kinds. Highlight books that may not represented on typical bookshelf. We walked away with a bag full of books.

Mid bookstore. The categories of books make it so the selection is really limited. It's less crowded than Myopic, but it's a lot louder. The store music gives it a k-mart or grocer vibe. Cafe food and drink was mid. Solid 3.

Kinda don’t want to review this place because I think it will become overrrun, but it’s great. I’ve been living in the neighborhood for nearly 10 years, glad they reopened in this beautiful space. Top notch place …

We're from Milwaukee and hadn't been to Volumes since pre-pandemic. We were happy to see the business had expanded and is doing so well! Staff were friendly, coffee was great, and we both walked away with brand new books!

I go back again, and again because it is always fast, fresh, and delicious. The menu has a lot of items. And their cookies and treats and good. Ice cream and pop corn. Super great local spot and the staff is always nice.

This is my favorite place to find a great read! Not only do they have a coffee shop but the owner is so helpful and lovely! I've also donated books her in exchange for store credit that they keep on file. Worth a visit!

The bookstore is great, nice size and selection. But it's the staff that keep me coming back. They are able to make great suggestions based on vague ideas of what I'm looking for, or who I'm shopping for, every time.

Really nice space and the staff seemed very nice as well. I was there for a book signing and talk and they had everything set up very well for the event. Definitely going to check them out next time I'm in the area.

Great book selection. It’s been a while since I have found so many books that were similar to my taste where I just couldn’t put the book down. The lavender coffee was also amazing. This place is my new addiction.

Volumes is absolutely worth a visit and then many recurring visits. Great selection, great staff, great energy. Their atmosphere is relaxed, their menu plentiful, and their events are incredible. Check them out.

The art if the bookstore is still alive and we'll at Volumes. A bright and open space filled with wonderful books and coffee. It reminded me of all the best parts of growing up and stealing away in the library.

Love love love this space. Usually go there to work for a bit and always end up browsing the bookstore. Nothing better than having you tea among books. Not usually crowded but they have some scheduled events.

Can definitely work from this cute cafe . Music played overhead but with headphones it's fine. Flavored cafe lattes are delish. I tried both raspberry and lavender. Asked for less syrup so not too sweet.

Great cafe/book store combo. Unlike the aloof Barnes in LP love how the staff here are so helpful and invested in the store. The drinks hit the spot in Chicago winter and the book selection is varied.

So happy Volumes is my neighborhood bookstore! They host interesting events and discussions, have a great selection of books with handwritten recommendations, and a magical kids section. Plus a cafe!

A book store and cafe in one with tons of seating, outlets, coffee choices, and a regular events. It's a lot larger than the outside shows, so keep walking towards the back for more seating options.

It's a pretty rad, interactive place in wicker with an awesome staff! You can tell that the peeps who own it really care about their customers and the neighborhood! A home vibe in a transient area!

Stopped by while visiting my friend, and this place is great! I love finding book cafes. Friendly staff, great books to browse, and you can grab a coffee, tea, or snack while you're there! …

Really great spot in Wicker for some book browsing (and inevitable purchasing because you WILL find something). Friendly staff, good beverages, nice quiet break from the hubbub of Milwaukee.

Such a cozy BookCafe in Wicker Park. I went for a Storytellers event one of my best friends was a speaker. We had a great time, I would make the drive again from Aurora it was worth it!!!

This is my favorite bookstore in Chicago. It is cozy and has a nicely curated selection of books. Also delicious pastries, coffee, and wine. It is the perfect place to spend an afternoon.

Incredible place; a cozy hideaway in a fancy mall. The staff member (Katherine) was extremely kind and engaging; the space is impeccably clean; and the selection was wide and informed.

Mariana makes the best Americano every single time I go there. Clean and spacious bookstore. Super helpful staff. Storytime is great, and their kids books selection is awesome, too.

Love to see an independent bookstore doing well. Very knowledgable staff. Lots of evening activities. Very good coffee - better than some local coffee shops. Plus adult beverages.

The book selection, the incredible owners/staff, drinks, and the events are just some of the things I love about this place. Lucky to have a store like it in our neighborhood!

Great spot to work, chill vibe, books to browse with alcohol and coffee. Latest hours in wicker too closing at 10 on weekends. Get the molly Weasley is you like chamomile

Such a great place to buy or read a book, grab a coffee, or relax and enjoy the atmosphere. Great aesthetic, decent selection of new and used books, and a friendly staff

Wonderful staff, beautiful place with a nice selection of current books. I performed there for an open mic and it was done so well for me and the other performers.

Friendly and helpful staff. I was there for a book launch and the atmosphere was comfortable for that (the owner turned down the background music). Good selection.

Really love this book store. Great and calming environment, and great selection of new authors. Plus a young adults section divided among different age groups.

Such a cute concept, and I really enjoyed the tea that they served. The staff was very relaxed, which is just what I want out of a bookstore cafe setting.

A cute cafe in Wicker Park. It's a great date spot in a fun location. Drinks can be a little overpriced, but it's a trendy cafe, what else can you expect?

Love love love the new store! It’s cozy and full of books and coffee and places to sit to write or read…perfection! So glad they are back in Wicker Park!

Awesome place for an quality selections of books. Nice place to sit down, though I didn't try any of the food. Need to be a customer to use the bathroom!

Great selection, super cozy and also open and spacious! Wheelchair/stroller ramp up to the kids area. Rebecca the owner is great! So glad they’re back!

Favorite place to get a beer and relax. They have a small but well stocked SciFi section of books, so I almost always have something to read in there.

Love this bookstore/cafe. Conveniently located with a great selection for children. Children can sit and read, while adults get to enjoy some coffee.

Good selection of books, and nice staff. It's laid out a bit odd, but they have a lot of different items, including literary journals (a nice touch!)

A quaint and well organized book, gifting, and coffee shop. Has a cozy vibe and pleasant staff. Extensive selection of books and tasty coffee & tea!

Perfect bookshop with a fantastic, curated selection. I appreciated all of the staff endorsements. The shop also has good, and a nice reading space.

What a great little bookstore slash café. Staff is lovely, book selections are on point, and the coffee is tasty! A great community meeting space!

Great coffee and tea selection, very cool vibe. Quiet place to work, read, or catch up with a friend. Highly recommend if you are in the area.

Went for a book reading. Really nice selection of books. Better than what I find in B & N and better organized. Nice coffee bar within.

Quaint, essentials bookstore. Didn’t get a chance to sample the drinks, but the atmosphere was very inviting. Great place for kids too!

Great customer service and prices! Ordered a book that was derailed by USPS but they made sure to take care of me. Will shop again.

The drinks were delicious and it was a very cozy place to read. They had a broad range of books and some other neat finds too.

A cozy place to sit down and read. The selection is lacking, both as a book store and a cafe, but it's a lovely place overall.